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Perioperative care

Ask

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Would it be ok to spend a few minutes talking about something that can make a big difference to the outcome of your operation?

Insight

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As having an operation affects an individual’s physical activity beliefs and behaviours, focusing on this can be a useful way to introduce the topic.

Using a non-judgemental and respectful way to get a conversation about physical activity started can keep the individual actively engaged in the conversation and decision making.

If done successfully, a 1-minute conversation can plant the seed for successful behaviour change.

Did you know?

Every conversation you have with people about physical activity is important in supporting behavioural change over the life course

All physical activity counts towards moving more

Real impact

“I sleep better, feel stronger, and have more endurance”

“I just really want to make sure that I’m doing what I can to keep my muscles in my legs strong so that it will be an easier recovery”

“It makes you feel good. I always feel good after I go for a walk…I feel like I accomplished something.”

Explain

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Many people who have just had, or are going to have an operation find that moving more helps them manage their condition and symptoms, as well as improving their general wellbeing. I wonder what you make of that?

Insight

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Asking a question such as ‘what do you make of this’ allows some space for people to talk and explore the information rather than asking ‘do you understand?’ which can shut things down. They may already have a good understanding of the benefits of physical activity, so if you’re pressed for time you can ask it like this without patronising them and also offer the opportunity for them to tell you that they know it already.

Did you know?

Every conversation you have with people about physical activity is important in supporting behavioural change over the life course

All physical activity counts towards moving more

Real impact

“I sleep better, feel stronger, and have more endurance”

“I just really want to make sure that I’m doing what I can to keep my muscles in my legs strong so that it will be an easier recovery”

“It makes you feel good. I always feel good after I go for a walk…I feel like I accomplished something.”

Invite

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Would you be interested in talking a little more about how physical activity might help with your health and wellbeing on another visit?

Arranging follow up is important after a positively received 1-minute conversation. Offer a follow up opportunity with you or a colleague appropriate to the environment you work in and resources available.

“In the meantime I could give you some further information to read if that would be of interest”

Signpost the patient information section.

Insight

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Follow up may be with you, a colleague or another service, but try to capitalise on the opportunity provided and book the next step before they leave.
If they decline a follow up appointment offer them a patient information leaflet, thank them for taking the time to talk with you about physical activity and reassure them help is available when they feel ready for change.

Did you know?

Every conversation you have with people about physical activity is important in supporting behavioural change over the life course

All physical activity counts towards moving more

Real impact

“I sleep better, feel stronger, and have more endurance”

“I just really want to make sure that I’m doing what I can to keep my muscles in my legs strong so that it will be an easier recovery”

“It makes you feel good. I always feel good after I go for a walk…I feel like I accomplished something.”